Collecting Rainwater for Gardening

Rainwater harvesting for gardening is a smart, sustainable, and surprisingly simple way to water your plants while saving money and conserving resources. Whether you’re an experienced green thumb or just starting out, setting up a DIY rainwater collection system can be both fun and rewarding.

Benefits of Rainwater for Plants

Rainwater is soft, naturally pure, and free from chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals commonly found in tap water. Plants love it, meaning you can expect healthier foliage and stronger roots. Soil likes rainwater, too—it keeps the pH balanced and doesn’t disrupt microbial activity like chemically treated water can.

There’s also the practical side: rainwater is free. Using it reduces your dependence on municipal water, which means lower utility bills and a smaller demand for local water resources. This makes rainwater harvesting a win for you, your wallet, and the planet.

Rain Barrel Installation Tips

Setting up your rainwater collection system doesn’t require a contractor’s license or an engineering degree. Just a few tools, a little time, and a decent barrel will do the trick. Once everything is up and running, you’ll have free water for your garden whenever it rains.

Follow this step-by-step process on how to collect rainwater at home:

1. Pick your spot: Find a downspout where water naturally flows from your roof. This will be your main collection point.
2. Choose a container: A 55-gallon food-grade drum works great. You can also buy a rain barrel designed specifically for this purpose.
3. Install a diverter: A diverter connects to your downspout and channels rainwater directly into the barrel while filtering out large debris.
4. Add a spigot: Install a spigot near the bottom of the barrel for easy access to the collected water.
5. Screen it off: Place a mesh screen over the barrel to keep out leaves, insects, and rodents.
6. Raise it up: Set your barrel on cinder blocks or a wooden platform. Elevating it makes it easier to fill watering cans from the spigot.
7. Strap it down: Secure the barrel with straps or brackets to prevent tipping, especially if you have curious kids or pets.
8. Plan for overflow: Include a hose or pipe to redirect extra water away from your foundation during heavy rainfall.
9. Clean the barrel occasionally: Rinse out the barrel and remove debris that has collected inside every few weeks.
10. Winterize it: When your garden is done growing for the season, it’s time to retire your rain barrel until spring. Drain it completely and store it in a garage or shed to avoid cracking in freezing temperatures.

Ready to Start Your Project? Come See Howe

Since 1965, Howe Lumber has helped people build smarter with top-quality materials and honest advice. As a full-service lumber supplier with a retail store and a 3,000-square-foot showroom, we’re equipped to support your DIY projects. Our team listens to your needs and never pushes what you don’t want. With our focus on relationships over sales, you’ll quickly see why so many gardeners and homeowners choose Howe. Visit our location in East Brookfield, MA, or contact us online for more tips on starting your rainwater collection project.